Abstract

Mukbang is an emerging form of online entertainment of eating food and performance. Mukbang has become increasingly widespread among the youth. However, why the youth enjoy Mukbang and their specific experiences when watching the Mukbang remain unclear. This study aimed to explore the reasons, experiences, and perceived influence of youth watching Mukbang. Thirty participants aged 14–35 years who had watched Mukbang in the past month were recruited online. The recruitment was conducted using a purposive sampling during March 13th to May 9th, 2022. We conducted a phenomenological descriptive qualitative study to explore the psychological experience of youth when watching the Mukbang. Semi-structured interviews were conducted face-to-face or via telephone following an outline. Data were analyzed using inductive thematic analysis. Four major themes were identified: reasons for watching Mukbang, experiences while Mukbang watching, benefits of Mukbang watching, and harms of Mukbang watching. Each theme was divided into 12 subthemes. Mukbang potentially alleviates mental health problems and stimulates appetite. However, the negative effects of long-term Mukbang watching should also be considered. Properly utilizing Mukbang-watching benefits and addressing its potential adverse consequences associated with prolonged exposure are crucial.